UNITED STATES · CHICAGO
University of Chicago
private · Founded 1890 · Languages: en
In short
The University of Chicago is a private research university in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 1890. It is known for its rigorous academic environment, intellectual community, and commitment to transformative education, research, and global impact.
Key facts
- Type
- Private
- Founded
- 1890
- Students
- 18,504
- International students
- 5,000
- Acceptance rate
- 5%
- Tuition (intl)
- €58–65k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Chicago, United States
The University of Chicago is a private research university located in Chicago, Illinois. Since its founding in 1890, UChicago has been committed to rigorous inquiry, fostering independent thinking, and advancing knowledge through field-defining scholarship and transformative education. The university is globally recognized for its contributions to economics, the sciences, law and the humanities, and for its vibrant intellectual community.
Why study here
- Engage in rigorous inquiry and critical reflection within a renowned intellectual community.
- Benefit from a transformative education through the Core curriculum and small, discussion-style classes.
- Contribute to field-defining research and groundbreaking discoveries that impact the world.
- Experience a diverse and international community dedicated to solving pressing global issues.
- Access world-leading professional schools, including Booth (business), Law, Public Policy and Molecular Engineering.
Student life
Life at UChicago offers a rich blend of academic pursuits and cultural engagement. The university's location in Chicago's Hyde Park neighborhood provides access to numerous arts, community events, and activities. Students can participate in over 400 registered student organizations, NCAA Division III athletics, music ensembles, the famous Scav hunt and a lively house system in the residence halls.
Fees
InternationalUndergraduate tuition is approximately USD 65,000 per year (about EUR 60,000), with total cost of attendance including housing and fees around USD 85,000-90,000. International undergraduates are eligible for need-based financial aid.
HomeUS and international undergraduates pay the same published tuition; UChicago is need-blind for US applicants and meets full demonstrated need for all admitted students.
LivingBudget roughly USD 18,000-22,000 (about EUR 17,000-20,000) per year for housing, meals, books and personal expenses in Hyde Park, Chicago.
The provided source pages discuss tuition benefits and billing for the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, which are distinct from the University's main programs. UChicago meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted undergraduates.
Admissions
Undergraduate (the College)Holistic review via the Common Application or Coalition Application, including school record, essays and recommendations. Standardized tests (SAT/ACT) are optional.
Graduate programsRequirements vary by school and program; typically a strong bachelor's degree, transcripts, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation and relevant test scores.
TOEFL iBT / IELTSStrong scores expected for non-native English speakers; TOEFL around 100+ or IELTS around 7.0+ are typical, though tests may be waived in some cases.
Rankings
QS World University Rankings13
University scholarships
Need-based Financial Aid (No Barriers)Meets 100% of demonstrated financial need; many awards are loan-free
Rubenstein Scholars ProgramSupported by a major gift from David M. Rubenstein, JD'73
Accreditation
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC); professional schools hold relevant programmatic accreditations (e.g., AACSB for Booth, ABA for the Law School).
For international students
United StatesStudent visa & funds
International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.
Working while you study
F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.
After you graduate
After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.
English tests
- IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
- TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
- PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+
Main intakes
AugustJanuary
Typical living cost
€1,420/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)
Programs
a selectionUniversity of Chicago · United States
Master of Arts in Digital Studies
The Master of Arts in Digital Studies at the University of Chicago offers a one-year general M.A. or a two-year specialized M.A. with a thesis project. This program provides a strong foundation in computational methods, equipping students with coding skills alongside the research, writing, and critical thinking abilities developed through a humanities education. It is designed for students with backgrounds in humanities or arts, but those from scientific fields, including computer science, are also encouraged to apply. Graduates are prepared for careers in software development, marketing, communications, technical writing, or for further doctoral studies and academic support roles in digital humanities.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
University of Chicago · United States
Master of Arts Program in the Humanities (MAPH)
The Master of Arts Program in the Humanities (MAPH) at the University of Chicago offers a flexible and intensive graduate experience. Students engage in a rigorous curriculum designed to deepen their understanding of humanistic inquiry. The program emphasizes critical thinking, theoretical foundations, and advanced research skills, preparing graduates for diverse career paths or further academic pursuits.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
18 mo
Duration
University of Chicago · United States
Master of Engineering
The Master of Engineering (MEng) program at the University of Chicago offers specialized tracks designed to prepare students for leadership roles in technology-driven fields. You can choose from five distinct areas: Bio- and Immunoengineering, AI/Computation for Materials, Energy and Sustainability, Quantum Engineering, and Soft Matter Engineering. Each track provides foundational knowledge and allows for exploration of specific applications through core and elective courses, guided by an academic advisor. The program utilizes a quarter system, with each quarter consisting of nine weeks of classes plus a finals week. This academic structure allows for flexibility and intensive study. The curriculum emphasizes an applied approach, aiming to equip graduates for traditional engineering roles, research, or diverse paths in law, business, consulting, entrepreneurship, and policy.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
12 mo
Duration
University of Chicago · United States
PhD in Computer Science
The University of Chicago's PhD programs in Computer Science are designed to equip students with advanced research skills to produce impactful work in the field. The program emphasizes rigorous academic training and fosters an environment for intellectual exploration and innovation. Students will engage in cutting-edge research, guided by faculty at the forefront of computer science advancements.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
University of Chicago · United States
PhD in Linguistics
The PhD program in Linguistics at the University of Chicago is a comprehensive, research-focused program designed to be completed in approximately six years. Students engage in rigorous coursework, independent research, and teaching, preparing them for academic and professional careers. The program operates on a quarter system, with students typically taking three courses per quarter for three quarters annually. A significant portion of the program involves coursework, research paper development, language requirements, and ultimately, the completion and defense of a dissertation. During the first four years, students will complete eight foundational courses from a selection of fourteen, a methods course, and three additional graduate-level linguistics courses. Six of these foundational courses must be completed within the first year. Years two and three involve writing two qualifying papers under faculty guidance, fulfilling a non-Indo European language requirement, passing an additional language reading examination, and taking a Research Seminar course. By the end of the fourth year, students will have defended their dissertation proposal and, upon meeting all requirements, will be admitted to candidacy for the PhD. The program also emphasizes professional development through seminars on presenting research and preparing for the job market. Students are required to fulfill teaching requirements, including acting as a Teaching Assistant (CA) and potentially leading a standalone lecture course, typically during their third, fourth, and fifth years. Pedagogical training is also an integral part of the program. Joint PhD options are available with departments such as Anthropology, Comparative Human Development, Psychology, Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations, Slavic Languages and Literatures, and Philosophy.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
72 mo
Duration
University of Chicago · United States
Plastic Surgery Residency Program
The University of Chicago Medicine offers a six-year, ACGME-accredited integrated Plastic Surgery residency program. This program is designed for highly competitive fourth-year medical students who will enter as PGY-1 residents. The program aims to provide comprehensive training in all aspects of plastic and reconstructive surgery. Beginning in 2026, the program will accept four residents annually through the NRMP Match. The selection process involves a thorough review of all applications by an applicant selection committee, with interview invitations sent via email according to ACEPS guidelines. Interviews are conducted in person at the University of Chicago Medicine campus.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
72 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for United States
full fundingDuke University
Karsh International Scholarship Program
Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.
full
Funding
€320k
Max
Jan 2, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)
University of Miami Stamps Scholarship
Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.
full
Funding
€260k
Max
Nov 1, 2026
Deadline
full fundingQuestBridge
QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship
Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.
full
Funding
€185k
Max
Sep 26, 2026
Deadline
full fundingArgonne National Laboratory
Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory
Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).
full
Funding
€130k
Max
Oct 1, 2026
Deadline
partial fundingBoustany Foundation / Harvard Business School
Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship
Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.
partial
Funding
€100k
Max
May 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingStanford University
Knight-Hennessy Scholars
Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.
full
Funding
€90k
Max
Oct 8, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What is the estimated cost of attendance for international undergraduates at the University of Chicago?
+
Undergraduate tuition is approximately USD 65,000 per year. The total cost of attendance, including housing and fees, is estimated to be around USD 85,000-90,000 per year. Living expenses in Hyde Park are budgeted at roughly USD 18,000-22,000 annually.
Does the University of Chicago offer financial aid to international students?
+
Yes, the University of Chicago meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted undergraduate students, including international students. International undergraduates are eligible for need-based financial aid and many awards are loan-free.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
For non-native English speakers, strong scores are expected on tests like the TOEFL iBT or IELTS. Typically, a TOEFL score of 100+ or an IELTS score of 7.0+ is common, although these tests may be waived in certain situations.
How does the University of Chicago approach admissions for international students?
+
The University of Chicago is committed to admitting extraordinary students globally, irrespective of their financial circumstances. Undergraduate admissions are holistic, considering school records, essays, and recommendations through the Common Application or Coalition Application. Standardized tests are optional.
What is the University of Chicago known for academically?
+
UChicago is globally recognized for its contributions to economics, the sciences, law, and the humanities. It is committed to rigorous inquiry, fostering independent thinking, and advancing knowledge through field-defining scholarship.
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